Civil Society (DP IB Global Politics: SL): Revision Note

The power and limitations of NGOs

• Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are independent organisations that operate outside of government to address social, political or environmental issues, often on a non-profit basis

  • NGOs interested in promoting development operate at the global, state and local level of global politics

  • They may only operate with the permission of the state government

    • The cooperation of the state government or powerful IGOs is essential for NGOs to have a significant impact on development

  • They are usually underfunded and rely on donations and funding sources which are not always secure

• In less economically developed states (LEDCs), NGOs frequently step in to fill gaps in the health and education systems

  • They have limited power and cannot operate without the consent of the state government

  • Many focus on urgent need, following natural disasters or areas in conflict

• Some NGOs try to bring about long-term sustainable improvements

  • Providing literacy education

  • Educating people about nutrition, health and childbirth

  • Supporting the equality of marginalised and vulnerable groups

• However, long-term sustainable change is rarely something they have the power to achieve

  • Some argue that a more educated and healthy society is the essential foundation for any kind of development

The power and limitations of non-NGO civil society

• Civil society is distinct from government and business and is made up of non-profit groups or organisations that want to support development

  • NGOs are an example of civil society organisations, but it can also include

    • Religious organisations – groups based on faith that provide charity or support

    • Charities – organisations focused on helping specific causes or groups

    • Pressure groups – organisations that campaign to influence government policy

    • Community groups – local organisations supporting specific communities

    • Professional organisations – groups representing workers or professions, such as doctors or teachers

• Civil society organisations at the community level focus mostly on social development - examples could include:

  • religious groups operating shelters for the homeless

  • organisations offering first aid training to the public

  • a community group operating a refuge where people can get food free of charge

Limitations of non-NGO civil society

• Non-NGO civil society organisations are often small and locally focused

  • This limits their ability to bring about large-scale or long-term change

• They are frequently underfunded, relying on donations, volunteers or the goodwill of members

  • This makes sustained activity difficult

• Their activities depend on the permission and cooperation of the state

  • In authoritarian states, civil society organisations may be restricted or banned altogether

• Community and religious groups may reflect the values or biases of members

  • Some marginalised groups may not be served equally

• Civil society organisations at the international level have greater power and influence on the global stage

  • However, they depend on the cooperation of states and armed groups - if

    access is denied, their ability to operate is severely limited